Retirement
When Should You Take CPP? The Ontario Math Explained
Should you take CPP at 60, 65, or 70? We run the Ontario-specific math including tax brackets, OAS clawbacks, and break-even analysis to find your best option.
11 min read
Read MoreCPP & OAS Timing Optimizer
The right time to start CPP and OAS depends on your savings, spending, life expectancy, and risk profile. This tool models it all — including the popular "take it early and invest it" argument, breakeven ages, and an RRSP drawdown tax strategy that could save you thousands. Enter your numbers to see your personalized recommendation.
60
3069
Canadian avg: ~84 men, ~87 women
90
75100
Average Canadian gets ~53%
55%
10%100%
40
1040
$450,000
$0$2,000,000
$120,000
$0$500,000
$80,000
$0$2,000,000
$0/yr
$0/yr$100,000/yr
$65,000/yr
$25,000/yr$150,000/yr
Real return is based on your selected nominal return less 2.0% inflation.
CPP at 60
$6,368/yr
CPP at 65
$9,950/yr
CPP at 70
$14,130/yr
OAS at 65
$8,917/yr
OAS at 70
$12,127/yr
Recommended Strategy
Standard
Take CPP and OAS around 65 if you want balance between cash flow now and guaranteed income later.
A standard start around 65 is the middle ground when there is some need for income now, but not enough pressure to force an early claim.
It keeps flexibility without giving up as much guaranteed income as a full deferral.
Early
CPP 60 / OAS 65
Total lifetime income$1,104,350
Age money lasts to72
Assets at end$0
Standard
CPP 65 / OAS 65
Total lifetime income$1,146,752
Age money lasts to72
Assets at end$0
Deferred
CPP 70 / OAS 70
Total lifetime income$1,189,702
Age money lasts to70
Assets at end$0
Based on 2026 CPP/OAS maximums from Canada.ca. Ontario combined tax brackets from TaxTips.ca. Withdrawal order: RRSP → Non-Reg → TFSA. All figures in today's dollars. Default CPP % set to 55% (near the national average). This is an educational tool, not financial advice. For a personalized plan, book a free call with Marc.
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The RRSP Meltdown Strategy in Ontario: Is It Right for You?
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